Patients’ and clinicians’ perspectives on a transdiagnostic experience sampling and ecological momentary intervention protocol

BACKGROUND: Experience Sampling Method (ESM) and Ecological Momentary Interventions (EMI) are promising tools for person-centered mental health care, yet evidence on prolonged transdiagnostic monitoring remains limited. AIMS: This study explored service users' and clinicians' perspectives on the usability and clinical utility of a prolonged transdiagnostic ESM protocol with on-demand EMI content. METHODS: Within the DISCONNECT project, 89 service users initiated a 30-day ESM monitoring period, of whom 84 completed the debriefing questionnaire to assess their experience of self-monitoring protocol. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 service users and 10 outpatient clinicians. Data were analyzed using content analysis and thematic content analysis. RESULTS: Both stakeholder groups perceived ESM as acceptable and clinically valuable. Participants reported increased self-awareness, improved understanding of symptom patterns, and enhanced opportunities for psychoeducation, treatment planning, and patient-clinician communication. EMI was viewed positively but used infrequently. Participants emphasized the need for personalized assessments, flexible schedules, individualized feedback, and context-sensitive interventions. Key barriers included monitoring burden, clinician time constraints, and organizational challenges. CONCLUSIONS: Prolonged transdiagnostic ESM monitoring appears feasible, acceptable, and clinically meaningful, although successful implementation will require greater personalization and integration into routine care.